Each year, approximately 33,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed and over 8,000 deaths from oral cancer are recorded in North America. While your dentist does check your mouth for signs of oral cancer every time you come in for a checkup, it is important that you recognize the early warning signs of oral cancer between dental visits too. Why not take a few minutes right now to examine your lips, gums, cheek lining and tongue?

What to look for:

• Any sores that bleed easily or do not heal.

• White or red spots in the mouth.

• A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area anywhere in or around your mouth, including your lips.